March 2005
Churches arrive at civil union crossroads
By Paul Titus
The Civil Union Act will come into force at the end of April, and churches must decide what role they will play in marking such unions. read more
South Pacific Methodists weave future from strands of the past
The Wesley Historical Society of New Zealand was host for a conference on the missionary heritage of the South Pacific. The conference had the title ‘Weaving the Unfinished Mats - Wesley's legacy of conflict, confusion and challenge in the South Pacific’. read more
Canterbury districts wed to form new synod
Representatives from congregations throughout Canterbury gathered in Dunsandel on Feb 20th to mark the creation of the Central South Island District of the Methodist Church. read more
Church seeks to clarify 21st century mission and ministry
A hui of 40 ordained ministers and lay leaders from all the geographical and ethnic divisions of the Methodist Church will take place in Auckland the first weekend in March. To examine some of the issues related to 21st century ministry, Touchstone approached people from different sectors of the church and asked their thoughts on the issue. read more
On a journey to Easter
By Mary Caygill
It has become something of a tradition for me to take time to pause in a contemplative way to become conscious of the rhythm of Lent that moves into the central events of Easter. read more
Kate O'Boyle 1980-2005
Touchstone writer Kate O’Boyle died in a fall during a visit to Andorra last month. Kate was returning to England and New Zealand after carrying out research in Ghana for a Masters degree in Geography from the University of Canterbury. read more
Deacon meets demands of dementia
Knowledge, empathy, community support, and a sense of humour are some of the keys to effective support for people affected by dementia, according to Methodist deacon Valma Hallam. Valma is senior field officer for the Alzheimers Society in Tauranga. read more
Methodist Archives: Many and varied were the ways of travel
By Frank Paine
Early journeys of missionaries and ministers required courage and stamina. While there were a range of travel options, none was easy. read more